Few places in the UK offer as spectacular and accessible a dolphin-watching experience as Chanonry Point, located between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on the Black Isle. If you’re a photographer or simply a lover of wildlife and the sea, this spot is one for the bucket list.
A World-Class Dolphin Spotting Location
Chanonry Point juts out into the Moray Firth, a large inlet of the North Sea that is home to one of the most famous populations of bottlenose dolphins in the world. These dolphins are unusually large (thanks to the colder waters) and regularly come astonishingly close to shore, offering rare opportunities for close-up photography without the need for a boat or specialist gear.
The reason Chanonry is such a hotspot is due to its unique tidal conditions. As the tide turns, particularly on a rising tide, fish funnel into the narrow channel off the point – and the dolphins come in to feed. The result? An exhilarating natural spectacle just metres from dry land.
Best Time to See Dolphins at Chanonry Point
While dolphins can technically be seen year-round, your best chance is during the summer months, especially from May to September. The most reliable sightings tend to happen about an hour after low tide, as the incoming tide pushes fish into the firth. Local tide tables are essential if you’re planning a trip specifically to see dolphins timing is everything.
Mornings and early evenings are often the most rewarding for photographers, not just for dolphin activity, but also for that magical soft light that makes the Moray Firth such a joy to shoot.
The Lighthouse and the Landscape
One of the most iconic features of Chanonry Point is the Chanonry Lighthouse, a beautifully simple structure designed by Alan Stevenson and completed in 1846. It adds a wonderful visual focal point to any landscape photography taken from the beach or shoreline path. The lighthouse is still operational today and is part of the Northern Lighthouse Board’s network.
The surrounding area offers a striking combination of open skies, sweeping views of the Moray coastline, and pebble beaches, a dream setting for long-lens wildlife shots or moody seascapes.
On clear days, you can see across the firth towards Fort George, a massive 18th-century fortress on the opposite shore. The juxtaposition of natural and historic elements here is truly special.
Getting There and Practical Tips
Chanonry Point is easily accessible by road. Park at the Rosemarkie end and enjoy a short walk along the seafront path, or drive to the small car park near the lighthouse (note that this can fill up quickly during peak times).
-
Bring binoculars or a long lens if you want to capture detailed dolphin images.
-
Be prepared for changeable weather layers and waterproofs are recommended.
-
The Black Isle is full of charm, so consider exploring nearby villages, walking trails, and cafés after your dolphin encounter.
A Word on Respect
As with all wildlife experiences, it’s vital to remember that we are visitors in the dolphins’ world. Keep noise to a minimum, avoid getting too close, and never try to feed or interact with them. The dolphins of the Moray Firth are a protected population, and the joy of seeing them comes with a responsibility to ensure they thrive for generations to come.
Final Thoughts
Chanonry Point is one of those rare places where the line between human and wild blurs just enough to make you feel part of something ancient and awe-inspiring. For photographers, it’s a gift, a chance to capture dynamic wildlife behaviour, sweeping coastal scenes, and ever-changing skies, all from the comfort of the shoreline.
So if you’ve got your camera ready and a bit of patience, Chanonry might just reward you with one of the most unforgettable experiences the Highlands have to offer.
